Iconic Filmmaker, David Lynch, Dies At 78

The word “Lynchian” invokes dreamlike images– near hallucinations and the darkness of the human psyche. The word represents the work of auteur David Lynch, whose works sought to explore the complexity of human relationships that are hidden in the shadows of our reality and explored what lurks beyond the barriers of our reality. It’s safe to say, there is no synonym that comes close to what Lynchian invokes. 

Announced on his Facebook page by his family, David Lynch passed away at the age of 78. He directed several mystery and drama films including Blue Velvet (1986), The Elephant Man (1980), and Mulholland Drive (2001). Also a skilled musician, Lynch provided much of the soundtrack for his own films and television shows, as well as three studio albums and twenty singles. 

Though perhaps his most notable work remains Twin Peaks, which aired on ABC from 1990 to 1991. The show followed the residents of Twin Peaks and Agent Dale Cooper as they seek to solve the murder of teenager Laura Palmer, and the narrative winds through their rich lives and growing conflicts. As the plot progressed, Laura’s death became shrouded in deeper mysteries and motives that proved to be beyond the capabilities of mere humans. 

Lynch’s filmography is distinguished by his unique style: repetitive, dreamlike music and soundscapes, reversed camera footage and dialogue, and a collection of eccentric yet unnerving characters. His mystery stories sent audiences through a labyrinth of interconnected stories and secrets, creating twists and turns that keep you from getting comfortable in the narrative. 

Lynch’s works have left an imprint on wider culture, such as The X-Files (1993-2002, 2016-2018), The Sopranos (1999-2007), and Lost (2004-2010). Other directors have paid direct homage to Lynch’s works, including Disney’s Gravity Falls (2012-2016) and Psych’s “Dual Spires” (2010) episode, which reunited many of the original cast for an homage. His influence remains some of the most prominent in American culture and stands a giant among other auteurs. Without his unique eye for camera angles, music, and storytelling, many modern classics would not exist. 

As fellow creatives and fans step forward to pay respects to Lynch, it is important to keep his words in mind. “I think that ideas exist outside of ourselves. I think somewhere, we’re all connected off in some very abstract land. But somewhere between there and here ideas exist.” David Lynch’s work connected us all in a very literal way; whether you are a fan of his films or if you enjoy a television show inspired by him, he has helped build a language of eccentricity and the macabre that permeates our identities as film-goers. However, his work should also remind us that we are spiritually connected, our stories weaved together in complex threads we may never fully understand. 

His work has changed and will continue to change the culture landscape of film and television and will inspire generations of creative thinkers to come.

Author: Abby Kirby

Abby Kirby is a high school English teacher and fan studies scholar. She holds an M.A. in Media and Cinema Communications from DePaul University.

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